Jimmy Butler provided an optimistic update on his ACL recovery during a Warriors-sponsored event in San Francisco, stating he's about six weeks from full-speed running but still months away from game action. The veteran wing emphasized his desire to finish his career in Golden State, calling the organization 'top-tier' and expressing gratitude for the opportunity to play alongside Stephen Curry.

Butler's injury on Jan. 19 against Miami derailed what was shaping up as a strong playoff push, ending his season during a 12-4 Warriors surge where he averaged over 20 points per game. The team stumbled to a 37-45 finish and lost in the play-in tournament, leaving questions about their aging core's viability.

Medical director Rick Celebrini will guide Butler through a cautious rehabilitation process, likely keeping him out for a significant portion of next season. This approach mirrors how De'Anthony Melton returned exactly at the 12-month mark last season.

Butler enters the final year of his $56.8 million contract and becomes extension-eligible in February 2027, creating both financial motivation and potential trade flexibility. While the Warriors have explored moving his expiring deal, the front office remains committed to rehabbing him as a high-impact wing, though Butler acknowledged that winning trumps personal preferences if a quicker solution emerges.